Frome Town Council has given the green light to progress a brand new skatepark in Mary Baily following a lively meeting on Wednesday 27 August.
The discussion was passionate, with some raising concerns about the impact of the proposals on girls’ use of the park. Councillors listened carefully to these points and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the new facility is inclusive and accessible to all. But it was the voices of young people that stood out on the night with a good turnout by them in the council chamber. Members of the local community spoke with eloquence and conviction about why a modern, well-designed skatepark matters to them.
One young skater Ed said:
“The skatepark is where we learn and progress. We also support each other. It gives us freedom but also community. A new park would mean so much, not just for skaters but for everyone who wants a safe place to be.”
Another, Jo Jo added:
“At the moment the concrete is cracked and rough. It’s hard to learn new tricks. With a new design, girls, beginners, and younger kids would feel more confident joining in. It should be for all of us.”
Councillors voted to proceed with the project, approving plans to relocate the skatepark near the younger children’s play area – more than 70 metres from the nearest homes – with a commitment to provide safety features built into the design to separate the two spaces whilst ensuring that it is as accessible as possible.
Cllr Polly Lamb said:
“As part of the steering group looking at this project I am so delighted that this project has been approved. It was clear at the meeting just how much people care about Mary Baily and the skatepark. The young people who spoke did so with such thoughtfulness, passion and energy – their voices reminded us all why this investment matters. There is a massive impetus behind the fundraising, and a real sense of community drive to make it happen. This will be a co-designed project, with inclusivity at its heart, and we want as many different young people involved as possible.”
The skatepark is expected to cost up to £400k, with fundraising kicking off this autumn. Professional fundraising expertise will be brought in to help secure grants and community contributions, alongside support from the council and the skating community.
The community will be at the centre of designing the new skatepark. If you’d like to get involved or have a fantastic fundraising idea get in touch with the Frome Skatepark Project: https://fromeskateparkproj.wixsite.com/frome-skatepark-proj
